It’s inevitable in a 31 day writing challenge: at some point, you’re going to get stuck. You’ll sit down to write, and there will be nothing. It will be clear that you have never had anything to write about before–and even more clear that you will never have anything to write about again.
On those days, I like to use some kind of form to inspire a piece of writing. Here are 10 that I might try this year:
An Abcedarian Poem: each line starts with a different letter of the alphabet. See Fran’s #TCRWP Reunion Abcedarian Poem for an example.
5 Things to Do More Often. Elsie Tries Writing comically imagines the list her husband would create for her then writes her own.
They’d See But Wouldn’t Know. If someone walked into your home and looked around, what would they see but not know? Leigh Anne’s version of this form inspired so many slices last year, and I hope it will be back this year.
So Much Depends Upon. Fall Hugs borrowed William Carlos Williams’s opening line and created a series of short poems.
Currently. I allow myself one Currently each March and I save it up, waiting for just the right day. But there are so many different versions, you could easily use it more than once.
TBAs. Aggie’s Truths, Beauties, and Appreciations is a great format for a day when you need a little more positivity and gratitude in your life.
By the Book. The regular New York Times book feature has inspired several slice formats. Catherine focused on one question: What’s on Your Nightstand? or see the longer set of reading questions at The Hyphenated Life.
If You Really Knew Me. Rita shares a fun introduction format for early in the month.
3 Things I Can’t Do Without. Deb’s list of 3 Things I Can’t Do Without was so generative it inspired mini-slices in the comments.
100 Word Story. Trina shares several resources for 100 word story mentor texts and crafts her own.
And a bonus:
Six Word Stories. If 100 words feel like too much, try some Six Word Stories.
What’s your favorite format for a day when you’re stuck?
the dirigible plum 
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